Homeless population and COVID-19: Reflections in light of nursing theories

ABSTRACT

Background: COVID-19 is an acute respiratory illness caused by a novel human coronavirus. Due to the accelerated spread of the virus, health authorities have advocated social distancing. Homeless people have difficulties meeting this requirement due to a lack of access to fundamental rights such as housing, education, and health. The epistemological bases of nursing theories contribute to under-pinning the care provided to these people. Objective: To reflect on the health care of the homeless population during the COVID-19 pandemic in light of five nursing theories. Main topics under analysis: The theories of Nightingale, Roy, Horta, Peplau, and Henderson have care approaches focused on the basic needs of homeless people who require immediate interventions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Nursing theories provide scientific support to caring for the homeless population based on physical, biological, and social aspects through intersectoral partnerships that can promote care during and after the pandemic. © 2022, Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Coimbra. All rights reserved.